Pardon facts for kids
A pardon is a special decision that allows someone who has been found guilty of a crime to be free from the punishment or consequences of that crime. It's like pressing a "reset" button on their legal record for that specific offense. Pardons are often given when there's a good reason, like if new evidence shows the person was actually innocent.
What is a Pardon?
A pardon is an official act by a leader, like a president or a governor. It completely forgives a person for a crime they were convicted of. This means the person is treated as if they were never found guilty of that particular crime. It can restore their rights, such as the right to vote or hold certain jobs, which might have been lost because of the conviction.
Why Are Pardons Given?
Pardons are given for different reasons. Sometimes, they are granted when it is discovered that a person was wrongly convicted. This means new information or evidence shows they did not commit the crime they were accused of. In such cases, a pardon helps to correct a mistake made by the justice system.
Other times, a pardon might be given to someone who has served their time and shown they have completely changed their life for the better. It can be a way to offer a second chance. It's important to know that a pardon is not the same as saying someone is innocent; it's an act of forgiveness or mercy.
Who Can Grant a Pardon?
The power to grant pardons varies from country to country. In the United States, the President has the power to grant pardons for federal crimes. This means crimes against the national government. For crimes against a state's laws, the governor of that state usually has the power to grant pardons. This power is a very serious responsibility and is used carefully.
See also
In Spanish: Indulto para niños
